El Nido Tour C: Hidden Beaches, Secret Lagoons & Island Hopping Guide

ABBEY: I highly recommend Spider Travel and Tours for island hopping in El Nido. Despite a reservation mishap between them and our hotel, they did not disappoint. Our hotel booking did not go through, but Spider Travel quickly arranged a spot for us on Tour C. From the start, they assured us that we would still be exploring the islands that day, and they delivered.

For Php 1,800, the package included towels, lunch, and a dedicated captain with his jolly crew. Tour C covers some of El Nido’s most beautiful spots: Helicopter Island, Hidden Beach, Talisay Beach, Secret Beach, and Matinloc Shrine. Aqua shoes and snorkelling gear are not included, so it’s best to bring your own or rent. The tour runs from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop.
We had lunch at Talisay Beach, where the spread included chicken and pork adobo, pansit, prawns, tofu, and fresh fruits. It was simple, filling, and perfect after a morning in the water.

The most challenging part of the tour was entering Secret Beach. You have to pass through a small opening in the rocks and push through the waves, but once you get through, the view on the other side makes the effort completely worth it.

There is a separate Php 200 entrance fee for Matinloc Shrine. From there, we were able to take photos on top of the jagged limestone cliffs overlooking the deep blue sea, easily one of the highlights of the day.

After the tour, Austria’s Guesthouse offers showers where you can freshen up for Php 50, which is a welcome option after hours of island hopping.

Island hopping is truly a must-do in El Nido. Great views, good food, and relaxed island vibes make it an experience worth remembering.

El Nido Tour C island hopping with hidden beaches and limestone cliffs in Bacuit Bay

WILL: El Nido’s dramatic limestone cliffs aren’t just scenic — they are around 250 million years old.

Tour C allows you to experience these ancient formations while island hopping through hidden beaches and secret lagoons in Bacuit Bay.

If you’re looking for fewer crowds, more adventure, and breathtaking scenery, El Nido Tour C is one of the best island-hopping experiences you can choose.

Tour C at a Glance

- Duration: ~7 hours (7:30 AM–4:00 PM)

- Best for: Hidden beaches, swimming, snorkeling

- Highlights: Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, Helicopter Island

- Crowd level: Less busy than Tour A

- Price: ₱1,800 (eco-fee included)

What to Bring -- These items make a big difference, especially when swimming through rocky entrances and sharp limestone areas.

•Sunscreen

•Dry bag

•Aqua shoes (available for rent at ₱100 per pair)

•Towel (provided by the tour guide) and a change of clothes

•Waterproof phone pouch or camera (available for ₱100)

Is Tour C for You?

•Non-swimmers: Possible with life jackets (some swimming required)

•Families: Recommended for older children

•Mobility concerns: Ask operators about physical demands before booking

Why Choose Spider Travel and Tours

As I shared in our hotel/resort blog, our booking from Charlie’s El Nido was unfortunately not relayed to Spider Travel and Tours. Despite this, Spider still helped our group of seven find another tour operator that could accommodate us.

They guided us on:

-Where to rent aqua shoes/snorkelling gears

-Where to wait for our assigned tour guide

-Even lent us towels for the entire tour

Spider  connected us with a top-notch tour guide, Gerald, who didn’t just guide us — he swam with us through the entrances of Hidden Beach and Secret Beach, ensuring everyone’s safety. He’s also an excellent photographer, helping us capture amazing memories throughout the tour.

That level of service truly stood out.

The Five Stops on El Nido Tour C

1. Helicopter Island

Named for its helicopter-like shape, this stop features: - Time spent: 45–60 minutes

-Steep limestone cliffs, a wide sandy beach and excellent snorkelling spot

2. Hidden Beach

Completely hidden by limestone walls and inaccessible by boat, this peaceful cove is reached by swimming through shallow water into a calm, sheltered beach.

3. Talisay Beach (Lunch Stop)

-Buffet-style Filipino lunch 

-Time for swimming and relaxation

4. Secret Beach

The highlight of Tour C. You enter through a narrow limestone opening into an enclosed natural pool surrounded by towering rock walls. The water is calm and incredibly scenic.

Aqua shoes are highly recommended here — the rocks beneath the water are sharp and uneven.

5. Matinloc Shrine

An abandoned hilltop shrine offering

•Panoramic views of Bacuit Bay

•A short staircase hike with amazing photo spots

•A mix of history, mystery, and scenery

Best Time to Do Tour C

•Best weather: January–April

•Fewer crowds: Early May or late November 

•Rainy season: June–October (weather dependent)

El Nido Tour C perfectly blends hidden beaches, adventure, and ancient limestone scenery into one unforgettable day. Swimming through narrow rock entrances and floating beneath towering cliffs makes this tour feel both exciting and timeless.

Explore 250 million years of natural wonder — one hidden beach at a time.

***

Spider Travel and Tours | El Nido

(F) https://www.facebook.com/SpiderTravelTour/

You can book too here in your GetYourGuide 

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Where to Eat in El Nido: Best Cafes, Restaurants, and Budget-Friendly Meals

ABBEY:  El Nido is not just about limestone cliffs and island hopping. It also has a growing food scene that is worth exploring. From cozy cafés to satisfying Filipino meals, here are some places we enjoyed during our stay.

Lazy Hammock Cafe - Despite still showing signs of wear after a recent typhoon, Lazy Hammock Cafe welcomes guests with genuine warmth. The staff were friendly and chatty while preparing our drinks, which instantly made the place feel comforting. My cappuccino was velvety and creamy, with just the right espresso kick. What made the visit extra special was the surprise ice cream treat when they found out it was my birthday. The matte yellow ice cream served on a black cone perfectly matched El Nido’s sunny vibe and was a refreshing way to cool down from the heat.

Inasal Eats Co - We did not eat here just once, but twice. That alone says a lot. The smoky flavor of their grilled chicken is exactly how inihaw na manok should be. Juicy, well-seasoned, and satisfying. Pair it with java rice and dip it in toyo-calamansi, and you have a simple yet very comforting meal.

Gorgonzola Pizza and Pasta - This large pizza place is easy to find. Just walk a few minutes along C. Hama from Townsquare and you will spot it right away. We ordered three 24-inch pizzas: 5 Cheese, Beloved Margherita, and Bianca. After a long van ride from Puerto Princesa, these pizzas did not stand a chance with my siblings. The wood-fired slices are flavorful on their own, though adding chili flakes or chili oil makes them even better. Even without meat options, the flavors are impressive. Still, I cannot help but imagine how good these pizzas would be with pepperoni or sausages.

Aubrie’s - I usually take my coffee with regular cow’s milk, so I did not realize Aubrie’s served plant-based milk until my oat milk latte arrived. To my surprise, it tasted really good and you would hardly notice the difference. Their second floor offers a beautiful view of the beach and Cadlao Island. We ended our island hopping day here and caught a lovely sunset, making the experience even more memorable.

Molave - We arrived early at Lio Beach, and Molave was one of the few places already open. Instead of going for the buffet, we chose their à la carte breakfast. I ordered skinless garlic longganisa, best paired with vinegar, along with egg and rice, all served in a pizza pan. I also had a cappuccino on the side. It felt like a classic Pinoy almusal, simple, filling, and satisfying, and a great way to start the day by the beach.

A taste of El Nido — from budget-friendly inasal and wood-fired pizza to specialty coffee and beachside meals

 

WILL: Every trip to a tropical destination like El Nido, Palawan isn’t complete without exploring the local food scene. While we initially expected cheap meals because El Nido is a province, reality hit us fast — food here can easily cost ₱400 per meal.

That said, we found several restaurants and cafes in El Nido that are worth every peso. Here are the places we personally tried and highly recommend.


➡️Lazy Hammock Cafe – Best Coffee Near Vanilla Beach
We’re not coffee experts, but after living in Singapore, we can immediately tell when coffee is watered down. 

With Lazy Hammock Cafe, our expectations were low — a ₱140 Spanish Latte in El Nido felt too cheap to be good. But surprise! This cafe absolutely delivered.
   •Smooth and well-balanced coffee
   •Consistent quality
   •Friendly and joyful baristas
If you’re around the area, this is the perfect spot to relax, enjoy good coffee, and stay lazy for an hour or two.

➡️ Inasal Eats Co – Budget-Friendly Food in El Nido Town
Let’s be real — food in El Nido isn’t cheap. So when we saw Inasal for ₱199, we knew we hit the jackpot. 
   •Juicy and flavorful grilled chicken
   •Amazing char
   •Unlimited rice option for only ₱219
It was so good and affordable that we came back the next night. This is one of the best cheap eats in El Nido.

➡️ Gorgonzola Pizza and Pasta – Popular Pizza Place in El Nido
This place caught our attention because it was packed, even during low season. That’s always a good sign.
What do they offer?
🍕 Huge wood-fired pizzas
   •Large pizza costs around ₱1,100++
   •Perfect for sharing
   •Chili oil enhances the flavor beautifully
We ordered three pizzas and were completely full for the night. This is a vegetarian pizza place.

➡️Aubrie’s – Refreshing Drinks and Non-Dairy Coffee Options
Many people hesitate with almond or oat milk because of the aftertaste, but no complaints here — which means they passed the test.
After island hopping under the sun, I went for their Banana Shake (₱200) to cool down and recharge.
✔ Refreshing
✔ Naturally sweet
✔ Perfect after a long day
A great stop if you’re looking for light drinks and dairy-free options in El Nido.

➡️Molave – Resort Restaurant at Lio Beach
Molave is a resort restaurant located in Lio Beach. They offer a breakfast buffet, but we found their set meals more appealing.
What we ordered:
   •Beef Tapa (₱350) – tender meat and generous portion
   •Banana Shake (₱200) – simple, fresh, and satisfying
This is a great option if you want a relaxed dining experience by the beach.

Final Thoughts: Is Food in El Nido Worth It?
After trying all these places, we can confidently say — they didn’t cheat our money.

If you’re traveling to El Nido and wondering where to eat, these cafes and restaurants offer:
   •Good value for money
   •Satisfying portions
   •Great flavors
Perfect for travelers who want to enjoy El Nido beyond island hopping.

***

Lazy Hammock Cafe

(I) https://www.instagram.com/lazyhammockcafe/

Inasal Eats Co

(F) https://www.facebook.com/inasaleatsco.elnido/

Gorgonzola Pizza and Pasta

(I) https://www.instagram.com/gorgonzola.ph

Aubrie's Plant-Based Vegan Cuisine

(F) https://www.facebook.com/aubrieselnido/

Molave El Nido

(F) https://www.facebook.com/MolaveElNido/

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Where to Stay in El Nido: Honest Review of Maremegmeg Beach Club & Charlie’s

 ABBEY: 

Maremegmeg Beach Club

Wilma and I spent our first night at Maremegmeg Beach Club. We were picked up from Lio (El Nido) Airport and brought straight to the guest waiting area. We arrived around 8:00 AM, which was way too early for the 2:00 PM check-in, but they welcomed us with a refreshing fresh watermelon drink. We then had breakfast at their restaurant, choosing danggit and beef tapa to start the day.

With no time to waste, we headed straight to the beach and soaked in the stunning views of the sea and surrounding islands. The infinity pool offers the same breathtaking scenery. We spent hours swimming, lounging, and sipping margaritas and sangrias.

By the afternoon, our room was finally ready. After climbing a few flights of stairs (yes, no elevators), we were pleasantly surprised by how huge the room was. The balcony overlooked the resort, and we caught a beautiful sunset from there. It really felt like we got a lot of space for what we paid.

Come early evening, the bar area came alive. Guests were enjoying dinner with an upbeat DJ mix in the background. We ordered smash cheeseburgers and nachos, paired with cuba libre and mojito cocktails. Back in our room, we prepared for our massage. While there’s still room for improvement in the masseuse’s technique, the session sent us straight to sleep. That might also be thanks to the cocktails and a full day of travel.

The next thing we knew, it was breakfast. I happily loaded my plate with bacon, sausages, and daing with bagoong rice. We squeezed in one last dip at the beach before heading to our next stop, Charlie’s El Nido.

Charlie’s El Nido

Similar to our previous stay, we arrived early and waited for the official check-in time at Charlie’s El Nido. This time, we were welcomed with calamansi slushies with mint, which were refreshing and perfect for the heat.

We explored the resort, found the gym, and managed to squeeze in an hour-long workout. For lunch, we had ginisang munggo and lechon kawali, both of which were delicious and comforting.

Our room was spacious and came with a balcony overlooking the pool. While the furnishings felt a bit old-style, the room was still comfortable. Charlie’s also provides shuttle service to and from El Nido Town, which is very convenient.

The staff made a clear effort to ensure our stay was comfortable. They waited for us during our late dinner, were attentive during lunch, and even served Wilma a huge frozen margarita. That said, there are a few areas where they can improve. When settling the accommodation payment, we almost got billed twice for our booking, which we only caught by double-checking. The island tour could have turned into a disaster when we found out from the tour agency that the hotel’s reservation did not push through. Lastly, the shuttle pickup at Lio Beach would benefit from clear signage and stricter adherence to pickup timings.

Overall, staying at both Maremegmeg Beach Club and Charlie’s El Nido gave us two very different but memorable experiences in El Nido, each with its own strengths and areas for improvement.

Guest room at Charlie’s El Nido Palawan

Maremegmeg Beach Club beachfront resort in El Nido Palawan

WILL: On every travel you will need an accommodation that will suit your preference and budget. Here in Palawan here are the questions you need to consider before booking your stay. 

• Budget 
• Location 
• Comfort 
• Amenities 
• Service 

Below are what I want to emphasize in our Palawan accommodations 

Maremegmeg: We want to splurge to LIHIM but due to their unresponsiveness we chose Maremegmeg. Our second in the list and we do not regret it. 

Maremegmeg is a beach club that consists of only 12 rooms and mabned by almost more than 25 staffs. Now I understand why they immediately knew your preferences, your name and the quality-focus service. 

It is also beach front — swimmable beach I should highlight. And the location of one of the best sunset on the island. 

One and only McDonalds is 1 block away from the resort. Speaking of food, Maremegmeg have restaurants and bar that you will not think of where you’ll buy your next meal. Oh, the buffet breakfast is also exciting. Dangit and their freshly squeezed juices are for the win. 

Oh their room, 

If you really want to experience a serenity and yet fun night in El Nido, put Maremegmeg in your list. 

Charlie’s: This is far from the beach and centre. I was allured to get this because of their free shuttle service which we experienced it inconveniently because the very less frequency. Charlie’s should reconsider to put timing. 

Upon arrival, they gave us a very soothing slushy. A welcome drink that stands out to others. But me mindful on what Charlie is billing you. I was so shock that the receptions billing us for almost Php70k. Well, it was settled right away when Abbey and I questioned the amount and she found out that she billed one of the room twice. Another mishap of the same receptionist is when we booked an Island Hopping Tour C for the next day and we foubd out that she forgot to book us. Whattt?? Good thing that their Tour Provider Spyder look for ways for us to get in to another group. Whew. 

The outer facade of the buildings are well maintained but the rooms are quite outdated given ot was only built 5 years ago. 

The shower pressure is inconsistent and the lavatory faucet have gunk build up. 

Nothing fancy in bed. Old style cabinets and drawers. 

What I really commend is the restaurant in El Nido. Morning, lunch and even in late evening they are there to make sure our tummies are happy haha. 

So that’s it. Will you stay in these accomodations in El Nido Palawan after you read out blog? 

***

Maremegmeg Beach Club

(W) https://mbcelnido.com/

(A) Sitio Maremegmeg, El Nido, 5313 Palawan, Philippines

(E)reservations@mbcelnido.com

Charlie’s El Nido

(W) https://www.charlieselnido.com/

(A) Km 279 National Highway, Barangay Villa Libertad, El Nido, Palawan, Philippines 5313 

(E)reservations@charlieselnido.com

SAVE MONEY ON YOUR TRAVEL HERE!!!

Expedia Booking.com, Hostelworld: Your one-stop-shop for hotel and hostel bookings. Find your perfect home away from home with Expedia's extensive listings.

KKDAY: Not Just for Attractions. KKDAY offers excellent options for accommodations. Explore and book with confidence.

GetYourGuide: Don't just visit your destination — experience it. Book your activities with GetYourGuide!